CIRKUS

This second (and halas the last one) album from Sinkadus doesn't sound more regressive than they fellow countrymen Änglagård. Their source of inspiration were the same (Crimson, Genesis both in their early, early days) and the way they reproduced the music is just excellent.

It is true that Sinkadus music sounds a bit easier to approach, which is even better to my ears.

Still, this album is more intricate than the marvellous and fully melodic debut Aurum Nostrum. While the opening song Jag, Änglamarks Bane fully reminds the grandeur of its predecessor (featuring some brilliant fluting as well as mellotron, but not enough tron to my likings) and is fully Crimsonesque, the follow-up Positivhalaren has a more eclectic feeling. The mood is darker, more oppressive. But the mellotron is there to smooth the angles.

Cirkus is not such love at first sight as their fantastic debut. You have to listen, and to listen more to discover all of its beauty. Because, there are no doubts: this is a beautiful album.

Bizzarely, Kakofonia is the most melodic track of the whole. Such a fine melody is just gorgeous. The instrumental intro is a jewel IMHHO. As I pointed out for their debut, the only minus point would be the vocals. This is the second highlight (after the opening song).

But of weak songs, there is no question here. Each track is a serious piece of music, featuring wonderful and symphonic passages. The closing of Valkyria is absolutely stunning in this respect.

The same magic takes place with the second half of Ulv I Faraklader. Do I need to mention the superb mellotron? I guess not. But each time that a band has used this great instrument (Paatos, Anekdoten, Anglagard, not to mention KC and Genesis of course), I feel the same passion.

If orgies of keys (mellotron), sweet flute, and great harmonies are of your liking, you shouldn't hesitate to listen to this album. I don't like it as much as their debut one but Circus remains a very good album. Four stars without hesitation.